IBC encourages Canadians to put down your cellphone and #likelife

JANUARY 18, 2016 (TORONTO) – Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is launching its #likelife campaign by releasing a video to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and encouraging Canadians to put down their phones while on the road.

"Unfortunately we continue to see an increasing number of drivers engaging on social media. Whether checking their Twitter feed, scrolling through their Facebook timeline, or looking at their friend's posts on Instagram- we urge drivers to put the phone down. Our message is simple: Your life is worth more than a Like," said Sally Turney, Vice-President, Communications, IBC. "By using your phone behind the wheel you're not only breaking the law, you're putting your life and the lives of others on the road at risk."

The chance of a crash increases 23 times when a driver is texting behind the wheel. All provinces in Canada, as well as the Yukon and Northwest Territories now ban using a cellphone or a hand-held device while driving. Penalties range from a hefty fine to demerit points.

"There are also a number of other distractions that are dangerous while driving; for example, eating, fiddling with your GPS or radio, and reaching for a fallen object," added Turney. "Allowing your attention to wander can have fatal results."

Using a cellphone behind the wheel has become one of the most serious road safety issues in Canada today, and the insurance industry is on the frontlines working to implement measures that will keep our roads safe. The industry has long been a leader on road safety, advocating for legislative changes such as graduated licensing and stronger penalties for drinking and driving.

​About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Ontarioor like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.